Draft Bust Alert: Which 2025 NFL Quarterbacks Face the Biggest Risk?

The NFL Draft is a high-stakes gamble. For every Patrick Mahomes, there’s a Ryan Leaf. As we approach the 2025 season, the pressure is on for the quarterbacks selected in the latest draft. While hopes are high, history teaches us that not all prospects live up to the hype. Which of these young signal-callers are walking the tightrope between stardom and becoming a dreaded “draft bust”?

The Quarterback Landscape of the 2025 Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft saw a flurry of quarterback activity, with teams betting big on their potential franchise saviors. The Tennessee Titans selected Cam Ward with the first overall pick, hoping he’ll be their Steve McNair of the future. The New York Giants traded up to snag Jaxson Dart, while the Seattle Seahawks picked Jalen Milroe. Other notable selections included Tyler Shough by the New Orleans Saints and Shedeur Sanders, who landed with the Cleveland Browns later in the draft.

Why Quarterbacks Bust: A Perfect Storm of Factors

Several factors contribute to a quarterback’s failure to launch in the NFL:

Inability to Read Defenses: College offenses are becoming increasingly simplified, leaving quarterbacks unprepared for the complex schemes they’ll face in the pros.
Pressure Performance: Some quarterbacks thrive in college but crumble under the intense pressure of the NFL. The speed of the game, the size and athleticism of defenders, and the constant media scrutiny can be overwhelming.
Lack of Adaptability: The NFL is a constantly evolving league. Quarterbacks must be able to adapt to new offensive systems, coaching changes, and the ever-shifting landscape of defensive strategies.
Off-the-Field Issues: Maturity, work ethic, and decision-making away from the field can derail even the most talented players.
Poor Supporting Cast: Even a great quarterback can struggle if he’s surrounded by a weak offensive line, subpar receivers, and a struggling running game.

Draft Bust Alert: Quarterbacks Facing the Most Risk in 2025

Here’s a breakdown of the quarterbacks from the 2025 draft who carry the highest bust potential, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and the challenges they’ll need to overcome:

1. Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans

The Hype: Ward’s journey from Incarnate Word to Washington State to Miami showcased his remarkable talent and adaptability. He possesses a quick release, impressive mobility, and spatial awareness. Some analysts even draw comparisons to Patrick Mahomes due to his playmaking ability and arm talent.
The Risk: Despite his undeniable talent, Ward’s accuracy has been questioned. He needs to improve his poise under pressure and learn to take the easy throws when available. Furthermore, the Titans’ offensive line needs to provide adequate protection to allow Ward to develop.
The Verdict: Ward has the highest ceiling of this class, but also a high floor. His success hinges on his ability to refine his decision-making and adapt to the NFL game’s speed.

2. Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland Browns

The Hype: Sanders boasts exceptional accuracy and a strong understanding of pro-style offenses, thanks to his tutelage under former NFL coach Pat Shurmur. His leadership qualities and ability to make quick decisions have impressed many scouts.
The Risk: Some scouts question whether Sanders is as dedicated to winning as he is to his own marketing and brand. His arm strength is adequate but not exceptional, and he sometimes holds onto the ball too long, leading to sacks.
The Verdict: Sanders’ football IQ and accuracy give him a solid foundation, but he’ll need to prove he’s more than just a celebrity quarterback to succeed in the NFL.

3. Jaxson Dart, New York Giants

The Hype: Dart possesses a live arm, a quick release, and the ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket. His athleticism and improvisational skills make him a threat to extend plays and create opportunities downfield.
The Risk: Dart’s aggressiveness can be a double-edged sword, leading to turnovers and inconsistent decision-making. He needs to improve his accuracy on deep throws and learn to protect the ball better.
The Verdict: Dart’s raw talent is undeniable, but he needs to harness his aggression and refine his decision-making to avoid becoming a turnover machine.

4. Jalen Milroe, Seattle Seahawks

The Hype: Milroe is an explosive dual-threat quarterback with exceptional running skills and a powerful arm. His ability to make plays with his legs and throw the deep ball makes him a tantalizing prospect.
The Risk: Milroe’s accuracy and ball placement are inconsistent, and he needs to improve his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions in the pocket.
The Verdict: Milroe’s athleticism gives him a high floor, but he’ll need to develop his passing skills to become a complete quarterback in the NFL.

5. Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints

The Hype: Shough possesses good size, arm strength, and experience. He displays good command and full-field passing talent when protected.
The Risk: Shough’s extensive injury history is a major concern. He needs to stay healthy and prove he can withstand the rigors of the NFL season.
The Verdict: Shough’s experience and arm talent could make him a solid backup, but his injury history makes him a risky investment.

The Importance of Patience and Development

It’s important to remember that quarterback development takes time. Even the most highly touted prospects need time to adjust to the NFL game and refine their skills. Teams must be patient with their young quarterbacks and provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.

Conclusion: High Risk, High Reward

The 2025 NFL Draft class of quarterbacks is a mixed bag of talent and risk. While each of these players possesses the potential to become a star, they also face significant challenges that could derail their careers. Only time will tell which of these young signal-callers will rise to the occasion and which will become cautionary tales.